American LibrariesSearch American Libraries  |
||
Site Navigation
Left Sidebar Items |
||
British Authors Protest Library ClosingsIn the wake of library funding cuts, reduced hours, and closings in Greater London and the rest of England in recent months, British authors and other supporters braved blustery, wet weather February 10 to stage a vigorous protest on the sidewalk outside the House of Commons. Historian Antonia Fraser told the London Times that the rain made her want to rush to the warmth of a library and that she could not believe the “basic lack of understanding” from local decision-makers. Novelist Margaret Drabble added that closing library services was “shocking” and authorities were “negligent in their duty to the community.” The Library Association reported that the number of libraries open for 60 hours a week had fallen from 200 in 1980 to 39, of which only six are in England with the remainder in Scotland. Eighty-eight libraries closed in England between 1987 and 1997. Yet a 1999 Office for National Statistics survey found that visiting the library was the fourth most popular destination after pubs, restaurants, and fast-food outlets. Posted February 21, 2000. |
Right Sidebar
|
|
